Siesta

Siesta (catalogue raisonné no. 6459), depicts two lions resting outside their cave, sheltering from the heat of the sun. Only the lion acknowledges the viewer - proud and majestic, he holds the viewer's attention with a superior and confident gaze; with ears are pricked, he shows an alertness and willingness to act, should he so choose. His coat glistens, and mane regally frames his head, displaying his health, strength, and - above all - power, over both life and death. The viewer is a privileged guest, an audience in an exclusive realm, humbled by the presence of African royalty.

We are grateful to Dr Grettmann-Werner for her assistance in preparing this catalogue entry.